Frequently asked questions.
FAQ for Guardian Personal Defense Training
1. What is Guardian Personal Defense Training?
Guardian Personal Defense Training is a veteran-owned company specializing in comprehensive personal defense and firearms training. Founded in April 2013 by lead instructor Kevin Arias, we offer a wide range of courses from unarmed self-defense to firearms training, including concealed carry, basic rifle and shotgun classes, and a 4-part defensive pistol series.
2. What types of courses do you offer?
We provide a multi-platform course catalog that includes unarmed self-defense training, firearms training, less than lethal defense options, crime prevention programs, and instructor-level firearms training. Our courses are designed to cater to both beginners and advanced individuals interested in personal safety.
3. Who can benefit from your training programs?
Anyone who believes in taking responsibility for their own safety can benefit from our programs. This includes individuals new to personal defense, those looking to enhance their skills, and professionals seeking instructor-level qualifications.
4. Do you offer concealed carry classes?
Yes, we offer concealed carry classes among our comprehensive list of personal defense training courses. However, our offerings extend beyond just concealed carry to include a variety of defense mechanisms and strategies.
5. Where are your courses held?
Our headquarters is in Oswego, Illinois, but we are committed to serving as many communities as possible. We frequently conduct classes at various locations and are open to traveling to conduct courses upon request.
6. Are your instructors qualified?
Yes, our instructors are highly qualified professionals with real-world experience. Our lead instructor, Kevin Arias, is a veteran and the founder of Guardian Personal Defense Training. All our instructors are dedicated to delivering training with unparalleled professionalism.
7. How do I book a class?
You can book a class through our website by visiting the "Book Online" section. If you have any questions or need assistance with booking, please feel free to contact us at (630) 272-9811.
8. Can I request a class in my area?
Absolutely! We are dedicated to serving as many communities as possible and would be happy to discuss the possibility of conducting a class at your location. Please contact us to discuss the details.
9. Why is "Firearms Training" and "Concealed Carry" not included in your company name?
The omission was deliberate to emphasize that we offer a broad spectrum of personal defense training beyond just firearms and concealed carry. We believe in providing comprehensive defense education that utilizes various defensive tools and strategies.
10. How can I learn more about Guardian Personal Defense Training?
For more information about our programs or if you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We would love to hear from you and are here to provide any information you need.
11. What is the duration of your courses?
The duration of our courses varies depending on the subject matter. We offer everything from single-day workshops to multi-part series. Specific duration details can be found in the course descriptions on our website.
12. Do I need to own a firearm to participate in your training courses?
While owning a firearm may be beneficial for certain courses, it is not a requirement for all our training programs. We offer a range of unarmed self-defense courses, and for firearms training, rental options may be available. Please contact us for specific course requirements.
13. Are your courses suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, we welcome beginners! Our courses are designed to accommodate individuals at all levels of experience, including those who have never handled a firearm or participated in self-defense training before.
14. How do I know which course is right for me?
If you're unsure which course best fits your needs, we recommend starting with our beginner courses or contacting us for a consultation. Our team can provide guidance based on your experience level and personal safety goals.
15. Do you offer any courses focused on self-defense for women?
While all our courses are designed to be inclusive and beneficial for individuals of any gender, we understand the unique concerns women may have regarding personal safety. Please contact us for information on courses that may specifically address self-defense strategies for women.
16. Can minors participate in your training programs?
The participation of minors in certain courses may be allowed with parental consent and depending on the nature of the training. Please contact us directly to discuss the age requirements for specific courses.
17. What measures do you take to ensure safety during training sessions?
Safety is our top priority. All our courses are conducted under strict supervision by experienced instructors. We adhere to rigorous safety protocols, including proper handling, usage, and storage of firearms and other defense tools.
18. Do you offer certification upon completion of your courses?
Yes, we offer certification for several of our courses, especially those that qualify participants for further levels of training or for obtaining a concealed carry permit. Please check the specific course details for certification information.
19. How often do you schedule courses?
Our course schedule is regularly updated on our website. We offer classes throughout the year at various times to accommodate different schedules. If you have a specific timeframe in mind, please check our online booking section or contact us.
20. Is there a community or support network for graduates of your courses?
We encourage our graduates to stay connected through our alumni network. This community offers continued support, advanced training opportunities, and updates on self-defense and personal safety. We believe in fostering a strong community of like-minded individuals committed to personal defense.
21. What areas do Guardian Personal Defense Training serve besides Oswego, Illinois?
Guardian Personal Defense Training is headquartered in Oswego, Illinois, but we proudly serve several communities in the surrounding areas, including Aurora, Naperville, Joliet, and the greater Chicago area. We're dedicated to expanding our reach and often take our training courses "on the road" to meet the needs of clients in various locations.
22. How can Guardian Personal Defense Training help me obtain a concealed carry permit in Illinois?
Our comprehensive concealed carry courses are specifically designed to meet the requirements set forth by Illinois state law for obtaining a concealed carry permit. Our experienced instructors provide both the necessary classroom education and practical training to ensure you're well-prepared to apply for your permit.
23. Are there any local laws in Oswego or Illinois that I should be aware of before enrolling in firearms training?
Yes, Illinois has specific laws regarding firearms ownership, handling, and concealed carry. We ensure that our courses provide participants with knowledge of these laws to promote responsible gun ownership and use. It's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with local laws, and our courses are a great resource for doing so.
24. Can Guardian Personal Defense Training customize a self-defense program for my community or organization in the Oswego area?
Absolutely! We're passionate about providing personalized defense training solutions to meet the unique needs of communities and organizations. Contact us to discuss how we can tailor a program specifically for your group, whether it's focused on unarmed self-defense, firearms training, or a combination of our offerings.
25. How does Guardian Personal Defense Training contribute to the local community in Oswego and beyond?
As a veteran-owned business, Guardian Personal Defense Training is committed not only to providing top-quality personal defense training but also to making a positive impact in our community. We participate in local events, offer specialized training sessions for community groups, and strive to enhance the safety and well-being of all our neighbors in Oswego and the surrounding areas.
The Essential Role of Continuous Firearm Training
Hey folks,
As someone who's spent a fair share of time both in uniform and as a civilian teaching others how to responsibly carry and use firearms, I want to talk straight about something important: the need for ongoing firearm training.
Owning a firearm, especially for concealed carry, is a serious responsibility. It's not just about having the right to bear arms; it's about the commitment to use them wisely and safely. Continuous training isn't just a good idea—it's essential. Here's why:
1. Safety Comes First: Above all, knowing how to handle your firearm safely is critical. Regular training sessions keep you sharp on the fundamentals of safe firearm handling, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring you're always ready to act without hesitation.
2. Muscle Memory Matters: When push comes to shove, you won't have time to think through each step. Continuous training drills those actions into your muscle memory, so when you need to act fast, your body already knows what to do.
3. Confidence and Skill: The more you train, the better you get, and the more confident you feel with a firearm in your hands. This isn't about bravado; it's about competence. Knowing you can handle whatever comes your way is empowering and necessary.
4. Staying Legal: Gun laws are complex and constantly changing. Regular training helps you stay on top of legal requirements and understand the critical principles of use-of-force, ensuring you're always within the right side of the law.
5. Preparing for the Real World: Good training puts you in as close to real-life situations as possible. It's about more than shooting at static targets; it's about making split-second decisions under stress, understanding cover and concealment, and knowing how to react in any scenario.
6. Knowing Your Tool: Every firearm has its quirks. Spending regular time training with your specific model ensures you're intimately familiar with its operation, reducing the chances of a malfunction or mistake when it counts.
7. Never Stop Learning: The world of firearms is vast and always evolving. There's always a new skill to master, a new technique to try, or a piece of knowledge that can make you better. The journey of improvement never ends.
To my fellow veterans and anyone else who takes the responsibility of carrying a concealed weapon seriously, this is our call to action. Owning a firearm is a start, but mastering it is a lifelong pursuit. Get out there, train regularly, join clubs, engage with seasoned instructors, and never stop pushing your limits.
Carrying concealed is a right, sure, but it's also a duty—one we owe to ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities. Let's honor that commitment with the seriousness it deserves.
Stay sharp, stay safe.